Research Scientist/Engineer – CSOF6

Role summary for potential applicants

Advertised JobTitle: / Senior Research Engineer - Geotechnical
Reference Number: / 35721
Classification: / CSOF6
Salary Range: / AU $106,285to $124,546 plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Location: / Pullenvale
Tenure: / Specified Term of 3 years
Relocation assistance: / Will be provided to the successful candidate if required.
Applications are open to: / Australian/New Zealand Citizens and Australian Permanent Residents Only
For Specified Term positions, we will accept applications from Temporary Residents with working rights for the length of the term, who do not require sponsorship.
Functional Area: / Research Scientist / Engineer
% Client Focus - Internal: / 0%
% Client Focus - External: / 100%
Reports to the: / Research Director – Hard Rock Mining
Number of Direct Reports: / 0
Role Overview:
In November 2016, CRCMiningand CSIRO Mineral Resources division joined forces to create Mining3. CRCMining, in its entirety, transitioned into Mining3 while CSIRO provides leadership, resources, facilities and staff to the new entity on an ongoing basis. Mining3 facilitates a high level of industry engagement and works across both entities to provide leading research capabilities to its members.
The role of the Geotechnical Engineer is to identify, develop and support novel technologies in the Mining3 underground mining projects. Specifically, in the fundamental areas of Ground Support, Mine Seismicity, Numerical Modelling, Rock Mass Characterisation, Blasting and Explosives Engineering.
Duties and Key Result Areas:
Project work
  • Develop and participate in innovative projects in the Deep Mining area,
  • Provide technical input to Mining3 projects
  • Communicate with mining industry personnel regarding current and potential project development,
  • Develop (in collaboration with others) funding applications to support the research,
  • Undertake the development of joint research projects,
  • Project leader for appropriate Mining3 Projects,
  • Produce high quality scientific and/or engineering papers suitable for publication in quality journals and for presentation at national and international conferences.
  • Travel to mine sites to participate in Mining3 research projects.
  • Adhere to the spirit and practice of CSIRO’s Values, Health, Safety and Environment plans and policies, Diversity initiatives and Zero Harm goals.
  • Other duties as directed.
Laboratory work
Technical
  • Collate and analyse relevant engineering data from customer mine sites,
  • Plan and implement theoretical research activities, such as numerical modelling,
  • Plan and organise practical research activities for field implementation,
  • Prepare design briefs for fieldwork programs and novel geotechnical instrumentation products,
  • Conduct numerical modelling exercises in rock mechanics and blasting,
  • Assist manufacture of novel geotechnical instrumentation when required.
Administrative
  • Assist / conduct / review risk assessments,
  • Manage project finance and maintain records of budget expenditure,
  • Write proposals for research grants,
  • Project reporting.
Field work
Technical
  • Collect relevant technical data from customer mine sites,
  • Coordinate and execute field trials at mine sites,
  • Troubleshoot research activities and/or product testing in the field,
  • Attend meetings and support customer base,
  • Identify opportunities for improvements in Mining3 products.
Administrative
  • Assist / conduct risk assessments for project activities at customer sites,
  • Lead logistics matters when conducting product / process trials at customer sites.

Selection Criteria:
Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed
Pre-Requisites:
  • Education/Qualifications: A doctorate or a post graduate qualification with equivalent research experience in a relevant discipline area, such asEngineering/Science, rock mechanics.
  • Communication: Excellent written and oral communication skills, evidenced by high-level reporting, presentation and negotiation abilities, and the capacity to identify and influence critical stakeholders to gain support for contentious proposals/ideas.
  • Publications: A significant record of quality publications as primary author in high impact, peer reviewed journals.
  • Behaviours: A history of professional and respectful behaviours and attitudes in a collaborative environment.
Essential Criteria:
  1. Demonstrated laboratory and field based research experiencewith underground mine operations;
  2. Demonstrated knowledge of the fundamental areas of relevance, including Ground Support, Mine Seismicity, Numerical Modelling, Rock Mass Characterisation, Blasting and Explosives Engineering;
  3. Demonstrated understanding of mine safety requirements and relevant industrial legislation;
  4. Demonstrated project management experience in the mining industry;
  5. Demonstrated experience in designing and conducting laboratory experiments;
  6. Demonstrated effective interpersonal and management skills to ensure success of project work on mine sites;
  7. A record of science innovation and creativity, including the ability and willingness to incorporate novel ideas and lateral thinking into scientific investigations to develop appropriate solutions to research challenges.
Desirable Criteria:
  1. Proficiency in the use of necessary software applications to record, report, present and interpret data relevant to the Mining3’s various activities.
  2. Experience developing research proposals
CSIRO is a values based organisation. You will need to demonstrate behaviours aligned to our values of:
  • Integrity of Excellent Science
  • Trust & Respect
  • Creative Spirit
  • Delivering on Commitments
  • Health, Safety & Sustainability
Other Essential Special Requirements:
  • Must be willing and able to travel to mine sites to participate in Mining3 research projects.
  • Current Drivers’ licence or ability to obtain one
  • Candidate must be able to meet required medical checks.

Other Information:
How to Apply
Please apply for this position online at You will need to upload your cover letter and resume/CV as one document, expressing your interest in the role and broadly addressing your suitability. Please provide sufficient relevant information to enable the selection panel to assess your suitability.
If you experience difficulties applying online call 1300 984 220 and someone will be able to assist you. Outside business hours please email:
Referees: If you do not already have the names and contact details of two previous supervisors or academic/ professional referees included in your resume/CV please add these before uploading your CV.
Contact: If after reading the selection documentation you require further information please contact:
Dr Ewan Sellersvia email: or phone: +61 7 3327 4162
Please do not email your application directly to Dr Sellers. Applications received via this method will not be considered.
About CSIRO
Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is a powerhouse of ideas, technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments, industries, business and communities across the nation.
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About Mining3
Mining3 is the leading research organisation directed by the global mining industry to develop and deliver transformational technology to improve the productivity, sustainability, and safety of the mining industry.
Our world-class researchers develop solutions to industry identified challenges, benefiting our members and the global mining industry.
By bringing together industry and research expertise, we are able to identify critical challenges and accelerate the delivery of real-world solutions, ensuring they are available to the industry as rapidly and effectively as possible.
Find out more!
CSIRO Mineral Resources - Mineral Resources works with industry to grow Australia’s resource base, increase productivity and drive environmental performance. We also provide critical scientific analysis that underpins a growing national dialogue on how resources impact society and the environment.